How can I tell whether asking for support will affect how professors view me?
Whether asking for support could affect how a professor views you depends on the university’s policies and the type of support. Review the official student- or accessibility-support information and the course syllabus, then ask the relevant office who will receive information about your request and whether it is handled separately from grading. If needed, you can ask anonymously or without identifying details. You can also check with the instructor or a trusted adviser.
Key points
- Review official support policies and the course syllabus.
- Ask specifically who may receive information and whether support is handled separately from grading.
- You may be able to begin with an anonymous inquiry or with identifying details withheld.
Things to check
- Procedures and information-sharing practices can differ by university, faculty, course, and type of support, so confirm the details through official information.